HOBOKEN – The New Jersey chapter of the American Planning Association (APA-NJ), a non-profit educational organization that studies and works on community development throughout the state, named Hoboken’s southern waterfront one of 2013’s Great Places in New Jersey, the city announced on Tuesday.

The annual list of attractions recognizes unique downtown districts, streets, neighborhoods and public spaces. Hoboken’s waterfront was one of two public spaces added to this year’s list, the other being Cooper River Park in Camden County.

“I am delighted that the City of Hoboken is receiving this honor,” said Mayor Dawn Zimmer. “The waterfront is the treasure of our city and underscores why Hoboken is a great place to live, work, and visit.”

APA-NJ’s president, Charles Latini, juxtaposed the waterfront’s past and present in describing why his organization chose it as an honoree.

“The City of Hoboken has shown great vision by realizing the enormous opportunity offered by its neglected waterfront properties in need of redevelopment,” said Latini. “This former industrial seaport has been transformed into a remarkable public space with tremendous vitality and world-class skyline views.”

APA-NJ officers will recognize this achievement in a presentation to Zimmer at an Oct. 17 city council meeting at 7 p.m. at City Hall. The following day, representatives from the city and APA-NJ will join forces to host a waterfront walk open to all, at 2 p.m. It is set to last about two hours, and will embark from Pier A Park at 100 Sinatra Drive. – Dean DeChiaro